In chasing an unprecedented fourth consecutive Premier League trophy, Manchester City will face their biggest rivals, Manchester United, as strong favourites. Despite being a point behind the league leaders Liverpool, City’s unbeaten run has reached 18 games across all competitions, winning 16 and drawing 2. They have been unbeaten on their home soil since November 2022, winning 30 games and drawing 5. City has won five of their last six Manchester Derbies, and their fans are confident about the upcoming match.In the build-up to the Manchester Derby, Pep Guardiola and Erik Ten Hag have emphasised the importance of staying focused on tactics rather than being swayed by emotions. Try telling it to the fans!🎥 One of the greatest Manchester derby of all time 😍pic.twitter.com/8v6K0nuItA— VAR Tático (@vartatico) March 3, 2024 Guardiola stressed the need for calmness and focus on tactical preparations rather than getting caught up in the derby’s emotions. He highlighted the significance of maintaining composure and concentrating on the game plan to secure a victory against United. Meanwhile, Ten Hag acknowledged the importance of learning from successful opponents like City but emphasised the need for United to maintain their own identity and style of play. He emphasised integrating successful elements from other teams while staying true to United’s unique club culture and DNA.Manchester United fan wouldn’t save his City-supporting brother’s life unless he also turned completely redThe Manchester Derby between Manchester City and Manchester United is set to be a crucial match for both teams as they pursue their respective ambitions for the season. There are several key battles on the pitch that could define the outcome.##NAJAVA_MECA_7918328##Firstly, the City’s creative forces. Bernardo Silva has been instrumental in past Manchester derbies and will play a crucial role for Manchester City once again. Despite the absence of Jack Grealish, Silva’s intelligence and versatility will be key as he operates on the left flank, potentially partnering with Phil Foden. United’s Diogo Dalot will face the challenge of containing Silva’s movement and creativity to prevent City from exploiting spaces on the left.Also, Kevin De Bruyne’s partnership with Erling Haaland poses a significant threat to United’s defence. De Bruyne’s ability to find Haaland with precise passes will be a focal point of City’s attacking strategy. United’s midfield duo of Kobbie Mainoo and Casemiro will need to be vigilant in limiting De Bruyne’s influence and disrupting his connection with Haaland to prevent City from creating goal-scoring opportunities.For the Reds, Bruno Fernandes is expected to be United’s primary attacking threat, likely operating from the right flank. He will face off against City’s Nathan Ake, who has been solid in defence but is part of a backline that has conceded goals. Ake’s ability to contain Fernandes and limit his impact will be crucial in City’s defensive stability and ability to thwart United’s attacks.##EDITORS_CHOICE##Another important aspect of the game will be Marcus Rashford’s state. The Red Devils’ attacker has been fiercely criticised recently due to his poor form and far-from-desirable body language. Football doesn’t seem to be top of his priorities these days, but the Manchester United boy is bound to be motivated in such an important fixture for his club.The Reds against the Blues: Which Manchester United will show up?Overall, these key battles highlight the areas where the Manchester Derby could be won or lost, with both teams aiming to secure a crucial victory in their pursuit of their respective objectives for the season.ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUESaturday Nott.Forest – Liverpool 0-1 (0-0)/Nunez 90+8/Newcastle – Wolverhampton 3-0 (2-0)/Isak 14, Gordon 33, Livramento 90+2/Tottenham – Crystal Palace 3-1 (0-0)/Werner 78, Romero 81, Son 88 – Eze 59/Fulham – Brighton 3-0 (2-0)/Wilson 22, Muniz 33, Traore 90+1/Everton – West Ham 1-3 (0-0)/Beto 56 – Zouma 62, Soucek 90+1, Alvarez 90+6/Brentford – Chelsea 2-2 (0-1)/Rasmussen 50, Wissa 69 – Jackson 35, Disasi 84/Luton – Aston Villa 2-3 (0-2)/Chong 66, Morris 72 – Watkins 24, 38, Digne 89/Sunday 16.00: (3.70) Burnley (3.50) Bournemouth (2.00)18.30: (1.32) Man.City (6.00) Man.Utd. (9.50)Monday 23.00: (16.0) Sheffield Utd (7.75) Arsenal (1.20)***odds are subject to change
